This is a treasure. Although the initial launch of Vanguard reached an altitude of about 4 feet, a successful lift off was achieved on March 17, 1958. This was the first success of a burgeoning civilian space program, which would soon grow into NASA some three months later. This kit is a reissue, and the molding is nearly pristine. Rocket sections fit accurately, and seams are well matched. The rocket engine assemblies take some care and patience, but this is a must-have for space program fans. The kit's release times nicely with the reissue of the re-issue of Hawk's kit of the Vanguard satellite prototype.